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INDEPENDENCE SQUARE 



MONUMENT OF MEMORIALS 



SACKED AND FOEEVEE. 



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PHILADELPHIA: 

i§^ OO-OPEKATIVK PKlNTlNCr CO., .30 and 32 SOUTH ."SEVENTH STKEET. 

1873. 




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IN I)E 




Tlie Hall of Imlcpendencc. 
Hall of the Revolution, 
Hall of the Constitution. 
Hall of the Government. 
Hall of the Union. 
Rooms for all Business, 
Library and Reading Rooms. 
Independence Hell. 
Washington Carriage. 
Trees for Independence. 
Trees for (lOvernment. 
Trees for the Original States, 
Lamps for the (Original States, 
Lamps for all the other States. 
Lamps, Historical, 



In BitildiniTs. 



In tJic 



Square. 



In Front. 

In Square. 

Around Square. 

In I'^ront of Centre Bnihiing. 



Federal Arch of Thirteen Stones. 
The AVaterman Monument. 
The Twentv-Seven Statues, 



]]'alnuf St. Entranee. 
Centre of tlte Square. 



Fountains, Flowers. Evergreens, etc.. as a ('(uiniiittec 
may direct. 



National Association for the whole work. 

Diplomas of Meinhcrship to pay for it. 



To the Select and Common Councils 

of the City of Fhiladelphia : 

Gentlemen: Allow me to present for your consideration 
a manuscript paper read before a meeting of the Pennsyl- 
vania Historical Society, September 12, 1870, being a plan 
for making Independence Square and buildings as named 
therein a monument of iiiemorials forever, to honor the 
Declaration of Independence, the patriots of the Revolution, 
the framers of our Constitution and Government, and the 
fathers of our country, accompanied with a plan for an 
association of a national character for carrying out the 
former and perpetuating it forever. 

I have also draAvn a pen-sketch for a diploma of member- 
ship to be made simply elegant, whereby hundreds of thou- 
sands of our fellow-countrymen will become members, which 
will, in a simple, efficient way, produce ample funds to do 
all that is named or needed in the most efficient and perfect 
manner, besides placing a fund at interest, the income of 
which will pay all subsequent annual expenses of every 
kind ; so that no subscriptions w^ill be required, nor an 
entrance fee be needed, nor will the cost be hardly felt by 
anybody. The people will do all, and the committees and 
directors of the association can promptly go on with busi- 
ness and meet all expense without delay. 

Numerous families and individuals in Pennsylvania and 
other States, who have heard the outlines of this design, 
give it such approval as to warrant the belief that it will be 
promptly accepted and supported by all our people through- 
out all our States and Territories. 

Very respectfully, your obedient servant, and fellow- 
citizen, 

JOSEPH LEEDS, 

No. 1614 Summer Street. 

Philadelphia, June 1, 1871. 



[Entered according to the Act of Coiigruss, in the year 1870, by J(JSEPH LEEDS, 
in the Office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington.] 



OIs^E HUITDREDTH ANNIVERSARY 

OF THE 

DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE, 

And Independence Square, and the three Ancient Buildings 
thereon, in Philadelphia, 

AS A MONUMENT OF MEMORIALS SACRED AND FOREVER 

Dedicated to the City and citizens of Philadelphia, to the State of Pennsylvania, to all the 
inhabitants of all the country and to the cause of liberty, right, and duty, for all mankind. 



The following, written b}- Joseph Leeds, of Philadelphia, was, 
by invitation, read by him before a meeting of the Historical 
Society of Pennsylvania, September 12, 1870. 

One hmidred years will soon complete their rounds since the 
Declaration of Independence was first read to the people, and its 
meaning from Scripture, Leviticus xxv, 10, cast on its bell twent}^- 
three years previously', as if prophetic, was sounded, " Proclaim 
liberty throughout all the land, unto all the inhabitants thereof." 
The civil eloquence, the masterly writings, the patriotic voice 
and the military' thunders of that period, carried out that dec- 
laration, breaking down the gates, bars and doors which opened 
the broad fields of freedom to man and humanity, revealing to 
our countr^'^ and the w^orld a Washington, who, with his com- 
patriots, led on and fought under toils, trials and hardships, on 
that long line, till the last battle finished the victory. But a 
crowning victory followed, when that great and good man, be- 
loved by the army, its officers, and the people, standing high in 
authority, and invited to supremac}', promptly repelled the latter, 
and without delay resigned the former, that the country might 
rest, and rise in the united ability of a new nation. 

For liberty and law, for freedom, industry and peace, for 
education and Bible religion, and for moral greatness and gran- 
deur, no event has taken place on earth, the advent of Christ 
excepted, equal to the American Revolution, in itself and in its 
results. By it the ensign of civil and religious liberty through 
the ages hidden or obscurely seen was for the first time triumph- 
antly unfurled, elevated and displayed among men. Under it 



3 

tlic best con-.tiUilcd govciiiiiieiit man has evov known was csLib- 
ILslicd, cariied on, and is now in full success, and with it, thus 
far, is, and has been, the blessing of heaven, while on earth it is 
celebrated by the most prosperous country- and people the world 
has ever seen. And if our goodness increased equally' witii our 
greatness, the future would realize more than human expecta- 
tions ever looked for in every thing that can elevate and adorn 
the children of men, and render life on earth desirable and happy. 
If there is a place in the marcli of humanity which claims a last- 
ing monument; if there is a field where patriotism deserves an 
immortal shrine ; if there is a ground where civil and religious 
liberty should have an altar of light "burning and shining," it 
is where the American Revolution can be most vividly portrayed, 
and its grand results most clearly impressed on human memory. 

Behold the monunn;nts in our own and other lands ; those loftj' 
and expensive structures to commemorate great events, noble 
deeds and distinguished men ; and with all their elaborate work- 
manship and immense cost, and stately appearance, what instruc- 
tion do they give, excepting that each one tells the single pur- 
pose for which it was erected, and perhaps a grand view ma}' be 
had from its summit, but nothing more, only the display of its 
well-wrought dimensions. The Bunker Hill Monument cost one 
hundred and fifty thousand dollars or more. In the prospect 
room near its top are two brass cannon, three-pounders, named 
Hancock and Adams, fastened to the wall. These were used 
through the revolutionar}' contest, and are looked on as our 
country's friends. The}^ draw more attention, examination, 
sympathy', tenderness and interest, than the monument itself, 
with all its surroundings. For all tlie hill is covered with dwell- 
ings and streets, excepting a small oblong square on the summit, 
faced with stone, from the centre of which rises the monument, 
silently- saying, '.' This is Bunker Hill." But the two cannon tell 
of patriots, contests, revolution, victory and freedom. The 
former is a symbol of loftiness, the latter of liberty. 

The monument here proposed would probably cost less than 
some single monument now standing, but in moral value and 
influence on our peopl i and all people who may visit it, or hear 
it, it Avould surpass all the great monuments known in the world. 
Relics, portraits, mementos, coins, engravings, photographs, 
monuments, &c., have ever 1)een dear to the human heart, and 
sometimes to a nation's heart, and man}- such become so valuable 
that, if only one should be lost, almost any price would be paid 
for its restoration. Merel}' to illustrate this value, suppose the 
Independence bell and the two cannon spoken of could be sold 
in memento-pieces, more than four hundred thousand dollars 
would soon be the result, which clearly proves that the memorials 
intended for this monument would be invaluable. Could such 
an apparent impossibility as a sale of tliem take place twenty- 
five j-ears hence, with proper previous notice over our countr}", 
they would bring millions of dollars. But nothing of the kind 
will ever be done, for thej- would belong to immoitality. 



The Avork here proposed would be a living monument, for it 
would live in the respect and affection of the people of all sects 
and all parties, parents and children, old and young, in our land, 
and all lands for all time. And wliatever trouble, calarnit}^, or 
extremity might ever come, it would be watched b}^ every eye, 
would be sacred to every heart, and would be guarded by every 
hand. It would be replete with interest, instruction and informa- 
tion, siiowing, as far as practicable, who declared our Independ- 
ence, who made it victorious, and wdio framed our Constitution, 
organized our Government, and put it in successful operation. 
And it would comprise a house and a household, in silent elo- 
quence declaring these words from Scripture, "The glory of 
children are their fathers." 

No children of any country ever had such a glory left to them 
as the American people. For industry, temperance, honesty, 
enterprise, intelligence and uprightness, courage and patriotism, 
and morals guarded by the sanctions of religion, our ancestors, 
in their times, stood preeminent, and with such character they 
were strong in right, to suppress wrong, firm in the spirit of 
independence, and decided to spend "millions in defence, but not 
a cent for tribute." Their wisdom is seen in their writings and 
State papers, in the constitution and forming of our government, 
in their forbearance nnder oppression united Avith respect for all 
lawful authorit}^, and in the Declaration of Independence, that 
immortal document which has become a light for the nations, a 
lamp on the pathway of liberty. 

Already the notes of preparation are being sounded to have the 
one hundredth anniversary of our National Independence, viz., 
July 4, 18*76, celebrated in the best and happiest manner, and to 
make it so full of interest to thousands, perhaps hundreds of 
thousands, who may then be in Philadelphia, besides her own 
people, so grand in music, meetings, eloquence, processions, festi- 
vals, and other appropriate observances, and so glorious for the 
best good of mankind, that its moral light will irradiate our land 
and all lands, and its voice be heard as a welcome herald to all 
people responsive to heaven's peerless anthem of " Glory to God 
in the highest, on earth peace, good will toward men." 

The patriotism of our cit}^ is enough and superabundant to 
adopt and carry out every patriotic measure to make that day a 
golden page in our history. To have all places for rational en- 
joyment open, to have eloquence and songs in our halls, grateful 
services in our places of worship, sociability and hospitality in 
all our dwellings, and if the monument of memorials here pro- 
posed should be added, and the ringing of the bell of Independ- 
ence to greet the morn, noon and sunset of the day, truly all the 
people will anticipate its coming with delight, and every voice 
would be ready to speak of it in the words of tlie ancient Seer in 
"Israel," " Jo}^ and gladness shall be found therein, thanksgiving 
and the voice of melod3\" 

The people of Philadelphia doubtless will vote to have all 
public offices moved from Independence Square; also, let the 



new Court Ilonsc be tiiken away, and tlio two wings on tlie sides 
of the central l)uil(ling, called tlie State H^use row, leaving In- 
dependence Hall and all the central edifice to stand in its primitive 
style, excepting to make it lire-proof as far as practicable, and its 
internal arrangements so as to be convenient for the purpose here 
named; but exteriudly to appear as it is to this and advancing 
generations, that all nia}^ see the architectural style of our fathers. 
The historical interest attached to the building on the corner of 
Sixth street requires its continuance, and for convenience and room 
that on the corner of Fifth street, besides which, both should be 
made alike in appearance. There is no doubt that all the build- 
ings will be well occupied in carrying out this design. 

Wliere Liberty and Union bad their birth, 
Let full memorials rise and ever stand ; 

A light to all the nations of the earth, 
A glory to our City, State, and Land. 

Let an approved wall, surmounted with an iron fence or rail- 
ing, surround the square below the buildings, with suitable gate- 
ways, and only as man}' paths as may be indispensable for public 
convenience. All else of the surface a grass green, excepting 
that occupied by trees. Let the wide fronts on Chestnut street 
be faced with handsome slabs of stone,* antl near the curbstone a 
border of thirteen trees, named for the original thirteen States, 
the Keystone State in the centre, and each State to furnish its 
most enduring and beautiful tree, which, no doubt, each State 
would promptly- do. On the east side of the Square, below the 
front buildings, have fifty-six trees, named for the fift3'-six signers 
to the Declaration of Independence, each tree, perhaps, to be 
somewhat characteristic of the man it represents. As many trees 
on the west side as Avill represent, in like manner, the fust Con- 
gress under the Constitution, including President Washington, 
his Cabinet, and the Chief Justice. Over the square and front, 
let such memorials be added as will comprise a beautiful sim- 
plicity' and grandeur becoming our City, State, and Xation, and 
have the entire Square and buildings forever sacred to Independ- 
ence, Liberty, and L^nion, with a law, sanctioned by the i)eople 
of all parties and made irrevocable, that no political meeting or 
election of an\- kind whatever shall ever be allowed or held on 
the Square, the buildings, the front, or in or on an}- part or parts 
thereof, forever. 

Let Independence Hall have full-length life-size portraits of 
each signer of the Declaration, in handsome frames, John Han- 
cock at their head, the others around the walls. L^nder each, his 
own table, his Bible, his cane, if he used one, his musical in- 
struments, if he used such, his favorite books, his diar}', and 
any other appropriate mementos of the man and the time. The 
original draft of the Declaration of Independence, in a suitable 
frame ; the table, now there, on which it was signed ; the Han- 

* Since this was written, the slabs of stone have been laid in front. 



6 

cock chair; otliei- cluiirs, if they can he found, which other signers 
occupied; the pen or pens they used ; also letters, manuscripts, 
and all other memorials connected with tliat great work aud those 
great men. Let the room opposite Independence Hall be fitted 
up in correspouding stjde with the Hall, and take sucli memo- 
rials as the Hall cannot well receive, for, doubtless, both Avill be 
needed to display the portraits and all else to proper advantage; 
but always, in all time, have it clearly understood that the west- 
room is only an aid to Independence Hall. 

Let the front entrance tlu'ough, witli its ancient stairs, be as 
they are, excepting to paint them and make them neat througii- 
out. Have the Independence Bell repaired by fusing a few 
pounds of like metal into the crack or breach, to blend perfectly 
with the metal of the bell, which will render it as it was originally, 
so as to give its original sound. It is said that this can be done. If 
so, and it is done, let it be hung on a proper frame, resting on 
rollers and placed in the entrance, protected by a wire screen, 
with its tongue replaced, so that on suitable occasions it could be 
rolled out on the Square and rung. Every Fourth of Jul}' and 
every Birthday of Washington, let it welcome the morn, noon, 
and sunset of the day. Thus, from generation to generation, will 
the same tones be hea^'d by millions of listening ears and earnest 
hearts, more dear to all as years roll on, linking a past, a present, 
and a future in a continuous chain of song, associated with its 
original proclamation and the last words of a distinguished patriot, 
" Independence forever." 

So wuU children be taught to know it, so will all understand it, 
and its tone will ever be recognized as the music of freedom and 
a response to the Declaration of Independence. 

Also, in this entry, the carriage in which President Washing- 
ton rode when residing in our city. It is now owned hya citizen 
of Philadelphia. Many travellers and others have visited it; on 
several public occasions it has attracted marked and profound 
attention and respect ; large sums have been offered for it, and 
are still offered, but refused. The owner says lie will give it and 
present it freel}^ for the purpose here named, to be placed and 
preserved accordingly; and there is no doubt that numerous and 
very valuable memorials, held sacred and dear in man}' families, 
besides autographs, important letters, diaries, &c., would be given 
for this purpose if applied for by a person properly authorized to 
receive them. 

Let the second stor}' of the central building be a militar}' hall 
of the revolution, showing, as far as practicable, the men and 
means which carried the Declaration of Independence to victory. 
Have a full-length, life-size portrait of General Washington, in 
military dress, at the head, his camp equipage and dress now in 
patent office, his table, sword, saddle, bridle, diaries, and other 
things of interest used or worn by him during the revolution; 
also, the commission he received to be commander-in-chief, his 
repl}' of acceptance, his letter repelling an inducement to suprem- 
acy, liis letter of resignation of all authority after victory had 



been obtained, and, al'ter giving to his country eight years of 
devoted service freely, refusing i»ayj also, the manuscript of his 
farewell address, said to be in his own handwriting, with such 
other mementos as maj' be of interest in relation to that preemi- 
nent patriot and man. Around the walls full-length portraits of 
his chief oflicers, including the distinguished naval officers of 
that period, with similar memorials to each; also, pictures of 
all the important battles on land or sea, and the flags, arms, 
cannon, drums, fifes, trumpets, pouches, powder-horns, letters, 
diaries, &c., of importance and interest in the revolution, all 
classified and historically labelled, so as to be understood by 
every beholder. 

Let thirteen lamps, six each side the centre path in the square, 
and one on the keystone of the arch hereinafter named, and 
twent3--three more around the square outside, near curbstone, 
represent the thirty-six States, and be so arranged that another 
can be added for every new State, each lamp to have the name of 
the State; also, seven historical lamps in front of the centre 
building, with names as follows, viz.: 

Independence, Victory, Peace, Tjibert}', Union, Government, 
Prosperit}'. 

These became important consecutive events in our history. 

The convciition that framed the Constitution met in May, 1187. 
in this State House, probably*. General Washington was chosen, 
unanimously, its President. After four months labor and delib- 
eration, of five to seven hours each day, (Sunday's excepted, and 
ten days adjournment for committee to arrange business.) the 
Constitution was signed September 17, 1787, l)y all the forty-two 
members present but three, sent wntli a letter to Congress, and by 
that body to the States, and by the States it was ratified. Under 
it General Washington was unanimousl}' chosen the first President 
of our countr}^, in his 58th j-ear of age, and was inaugurated in 
New York, April 30, 1789. 

In the building on the corner of Sixth street, Congress met for 
about ten years after the adoption of the Constitution — the 
House in the first stor^', the Senate in second. The desk and 
chair of the speaker stood midway against the wall on Sixth 
street. General Washington was unanimousl}' chosen President 
for a second term, and was inaugurated in the Senate chamber 
March 4, 1703. His successor, John Adams, was inaugurated in 
this Representative hall ^March 4, 1797. 

Let this first story be made, as it was original!}^, a large hall 
for the best and most competent men from any and all the States 
to be invited at appointed times to give public lectures on the 
nature and tendencies of our government, on the duties of all 
persons in office, from lowest to highest, on the great importance 
of truth, integrity and right, on the dangers of corruption and 
wrong, on the principles and acts of our fathers, on the exalted 
character of Washington, to keep his example and counsels before 
the people, and adding such instruction and advice as will 



8 

strengthen correct principles unci promote union, welfare and 
happiness among all. 

And to make this hall the more interesting, there can be no 
doubt that each of the thirty-six Stages and each new State that 
may be added would present its coat of arms, mottos, &c., in 
handsome frame, to be placed around the walls, and under each 
a picture of its capitol building and location, date of its admis- 
sion to the Union, and an}' facts or events of general importance 
and interest to our country. Then let a beautiful chain, having a 
link for each State, pass directly over them and between each all 
around, hand joining hand, the one an emblem of union, the other 
of brotlierhood ; and at the desk or over it a picture of the capi- 
tol buildings of our nation, dates of erection, with some account 
of their rooms and their appropriate uses. In the second storj^, 
made one room as it was originally, have full-length, life-size por- 
traits of the men of the first Congress, including President Wash- 
ington and members of his cabinet, and the Chief Justice, with 
memorials and mementos as named for Independence Hall. 

Let the second story of the building corner of Fifth street,. 
made into one hall, liave life-size portraits of the members of said 
convention, Avith memorials to each as heretofore mentioned for 
the others, and all other memorials of interest and importance 
pertaining to the same ; and have the first stor^^ and basement 
arranged with rooms for business offices, I'ecords, &c. ; also, as a 
residence for a gentleman of intelligence and abilit}'', who may be 
chosen as chief officer for the whole, with a competent salary, 
and who, with a chosen committee, will see that neatness, order,, 
propriet}', and every other requisite shall prevail throughout the 
whole and every part thereof as nearly to perfection as may be 
possible. 

Have two corridors of appropriate architecture run from second 
story of Fifth street to centre building, and thence to Sixth street 
building, that visitors may pass through all without going outside. 
Besides ample passage ways, these would give room for a library 
for all publications touching our country from 1160 to 1800, and 
reading rooms to seat a thousand persons. 

In 1851-2 preliminar}^ measures were taken in our city, origi- 
nated by A. Gr. Waterman, Esq., to have a monument erected in 
Independence Square by the original thirteen States, the pedestal 
to have thirteen sides, with devices, &c., such as each State might 
direct, an entablature on which the whole Declaration of Inde- 
pendence should be cut in solid stone, and a tower surmounting 
all. This was brought to public notice, and a circular letter was 
sent to each of those States, all in the language of patriotism, to 
have the work done, and measures were taken to have it done. 
Subsequently Mr. Waterman died, and years have passed without 
further action. Let this noble design be embraced in the work 
here proposed ; moreover, should this Avork be done, all would 
desire to have something in it to honor the memory of A. G. 
Waterman, a citizen of Philadelphia, and a patriotic and public- 
spirited man. 



Place in (Vont of this monument nine granite pedef^tals, suj")- 
portinp: nine statues of the most fearless and prominent advo- 
cates of Independence, who, like pioneers, proclaimed it years 
before the declaration, from North, South and Middle States of 
the original tliirteen, tliree each ; directl}- in front of tlie monu- 
ment a statue of Thomas Jefferson; on each side of it two others 
— Adams, Franklin, Sherman and Livingstone — making the com- 
mittee of five who presented the Declaration to Congress, and in 
the rear thirteen statues, General Washington in the centre, and 
six each side of him of his chief revolutionar}^ men from North, 
South and Middle States of the original thirteen, four each. 

Pennsylvania is most appropriately the Kej'stone State. When 
the Declaration of Independence was being considered, each State 
w^as b}' its delegation in front of the Speaker's chair, on the right 
six, on the left six, Avith Pennsylvania in the centre like a key- 
stone. The vote was taken by States, and a majorit}' of delegates 
from a State carried that State; and to adopt the Declaration 
the States had to be unanimous. 

On the first day of July, ITTG, all the States excepting Dela- 
ware and Pennsylvania voted in the affirmative, the latter in the 
negative by a vote of 4 to 3. 

On the 4th all the States but Pennsylvania voted in the affirma- 
tive, and so stood. Penns3lvania had but four delegates present. 
Two voted for and two against the Declaration. One was ex- 
pected to come in who had been called out b}'- friends and others, 
to urge him to vote in the negative. 

Here was a momentous pause in a time when men's souls were 
tried to their very centre, the arch of union standing hazardous, 
with the keystone suspended over it b}' a tie vote, and all in deep 
anxiety looking for the one Pennsylvania member to come in by 
whose vote the great decision would be made. That man was 
John Morton. It is said that John Hancock, anxious for his 
arrival, instead of declaring the vote as it stood, occupied the 
time by speaking until he saw him enter the door. Here was a 
man, having adverse influences, outside and otherwise, urging and 
pressing on him with almost crushing weight to vote against the 
Declaration by scores of friends and othei's who viewed it as 
direct rebellion to British rule, and apprehended a f;\ilure that 
would end in dreadful punishment. Yet that noble patriot and 
man, with love of country in his heart rising above all, came in 
and took the responsibility of deciding the great question, not 
only for Pennsylvania, but as umpire for the whole country. 
John INIorton voted. Simultaneously the Kej'stone was in its 
place, the arch was complete, the States were unanimous, the 
grand Declaration sprang into life, the fountain of fi'ecdom 
flowed, Independence, Libert}' and L^nion stood baptized, and a 
nation was born. 

Well might the spirit of the Huguenots, the Pilgrims, Puritans, 
and Penn, have lingered here to approve, rejoice, and say, " Let 
all this have a choice place in every American heart, to be seen 
in the brightest mirror of memory forever." 



10 

Let tlie Keystone be conspicuous by having a wide entrance 
to the centre of Independence Square on Walnut street, with a 
noble g-ranite pillar each side, both supporting a beautiful arch 
of thirteen choice stones, each stone deeply cut both sides with 
the name of one of the original thirteen States, all properly 
arranged, with the Keystone for Pennsylvania. Doubtless, each 
of those States would furnish a stone according to dimensions 
given, and send it, wrought in the most perfect manner. 

John Morton placed the Keystone in the arch of patriotism. 
He lived eight months afterwards. Before leaving the world, he 
said, " Tell my friends and others wlio censured me for ra}' vote, 
that tliey will live to see the hour when they shall acknowledge 
it to have been the most glorious service I ever rendered to my 
countr3^" His vote proved a victory; his last words a reality. 
If the work here proposed should be done, let some part of it 
honor the memory of John Morton. 

In each department have a book to record list of the memorials, 
the names of donors of such as are given, date when given, place 
where given, when received, and snch further account of each as 
may be essential and interesting. Also a book for each visitor 
to write therein his or her name, residence, &c., and have all 
records carefully preserved for all time. 

Thus, in this one design, there would be represented. First, in 
the building at Fifth street, all rooms for a cliief officer, business, 
and records, also the Constitutional Convention. Secondly, in 
the State House, the Declaration of Independence, the bell of 
Liberty, the Revolution, and Washington's carriage. Thirdly, 
in the building corner of Sixth street, the Congress and Execu- 
tive under the Constitution, the thirty-six States, and room for 
patriotic lectures. Fourthl}^, in the corridors, the library and 
reading-rooms; and on the grounds, the trees, arch, and monu- 
ment for the old thirteen States, and lamps for all the States, 
and trees for signers to Declaration and Constitution, and for 
Government under the Constitution, and seven historical lamps ; 
also, the Waterman monument and twenty-seven statues. 

As hi the east appears the breaking morn, 
And gilding light the scenes of earth adorn ; 
So Freedom's sun on eastern line arose. 
To spread its glories wide to western close. 

Begins the emblem on our Square, east side ; 
In grandeur see each step a moral stride ; 
Till on its west, the States presented stand, 
Our country's chain, our Union, hand in hand. 

And thus, in one great exhibition, our beloved country would 
be seen, especiallj^ in that all-important period from 1774 to 1799, 
when Washington, standing at the close of the eighteenth century 
and at the head of the nineteenth, the model man of the world, 
departed tliis life, leaving a character spread out before his 
country and all countries as pure and as beautiful as the golden 
skies in a clear autumnal sunset. Great in goodness, good in 



11 

greatness, with rising fame, still rising, and still to rise, as if let- 
tered on the firmament with ascending stars. 

Probabl}' no work has eA^er been done on earth b}'^ man that 
can more appropriately meet the scriptural words, "God reqnir- 
eth that which is past," than the one here proposed to bo done. 

Its entire cost may reach five to seven hundred thousand dol- 
lars, and as much more for au income for yearly expenses. A 
small sum, compared with the wealth of our city, more so with 
that of our State, far more with that of our Nation. To illustrate 
its own financial or pecuniary value, just suppose, for a moment, 
an impossibility, viz.: That a company could own it, and, without 
an}' entrance fee, could receive all the additional value it would 
give to real estate around it, the benefits of all the increase of 
business it would bring to our cit}', the additional gains to our 
hotels, stores, &c., augmenting from year to year, and then its 
pecuniary w^orth at the end of twenty-five years, the company 
could pa}^ one hundred per cent, yearly dividends, and at the 
termination of said time would have millions still to divide. All 
this would flow into the business and Avealth of our citizens and 
cit}'. But no pecuniary oi* speculative gains can be high enough 
to reach the exalted platform of this patriotic purpose, nor can 
its woith be told in dollars and cents. It would be a diadem to 
our country, adorned with richest jewels, a firmament of patriot- 
ism, illumined by the spreading radiance of the Sun of Liberty. 

If the beaut}-, loA'eliness, grandeur, magnificence of the scenes 
of nature portrayed on canvas, tend to elevate and purify human 
thoughts ; if the pictures and statues of the departed great and 
good are beheld with rcA^erence; if mementos, emblems and me- 
morials have in all ages been dear, telling of excellence that 
lived, and prompting to higher excellence; if the single and some- 
times simplest gift of affection is held as priceless ; and if all such 
(some of which are handmaids to religion) lead the minds of the 
children of men upward and onward in the atmosphere of trutli, 
purity, freedom, philanthrop}-, patriotism, peace and charit}', then 
what will be the influence of this monument of memorials, in win- 
ning the admiration, the love and the reverential regard of ever}' 
beholder, and of all who may hear of it, in all civilized nations? 

Its moral worth in words cannot be given, 
Each heart can feel, and 'mid its scenes may say, 

Sublime and solemn, like the stars of Heaven, 
This ushered in the morn of Freedom's day. 

Historical, genealogioal, antiquarian and other societies, also 
libraries, records, travels, searches, &c., involving years of time 
and millions in cost, are all cheerfully supported for the one great 
purpose of knowing the past. Can any one of them, or even all, 
display an event so important, or any in so vivid a manner, as 
the work here proposed ? For this, if carried out, will show the 
introduction of civil and religious liberty to man. The Keforma- 
tion was like a few voices crying for it in a wilderness: the Hu- 
guenots, Pilgrims and Puritans were its pioneers ; bold and 



12 

dxiuntless patriots like James Otis, Patrick TIenry and ot ors, 
opened its ijatlnvay; the Declaration of Independence unh'ciced 
its gates; the Revolution entered its field victoriously', our coun- 
try is planting that field world-wide, and the liarvest is freedom, 
order, peace, with human rights and duties for all mankind. 

It would l)e a lasting honor to Philadelphia; it Avould more 
than substitute and supply all monuments tliat have been pro- 
posed ; it would be a standing testimony that republics are not 
alwa3^s ungrateful ; it would give to children and youth a clear 
view of their country, their country's fathers, and the priceless 
value of liberty, government, order, safetj^ and happiness; it 
would tend to unite all parties in selecting and clioosing wise and 
good men for every official station ; it would make our city more 
than ever respected and beloved by our countr^^, and the increas- 
ing fame of our beloved Washington would be followed liy the 
fame of Pliiladelphia, as having the most noble, interesting and 
instructive monument of patriotism mankind has ever known. 
It would tend to increase moral purity and goodness, to strengthen 
the union of our States, to augment the true greatness of our 
nation, and everybody would see it as the ark of human rights 
and duties, riding liigh above the reckless and miry undercurrents 
of deception, falsehood, corruption, injustice, oppression, and the 
whole catalogue of wrongs. 

Well might a citizen of Philadelphia feel some degree of pride 
in taking his family, his friends, liis guests to tliis place, where 
all could be entertained, be interested, be instructed, and in a day 
learn more of the American Revolution, of our fathers, and of the 
origin and formation of our government, than usually would be 
learned in years. Besides which, the impressions on every mind 
would be lasting, especially with the young. No museum would 
be more interesting, no other nation could have such a monu- 
ment, and no city on earth but Philadelphia could possibly obtain 
such a treasure. 

This will accord with Christianity, gratitude, and every trait 
of character that can purify, adorn and bless our peoplo, our 
countr}' and mankind. And it will be what no other country, 
age, place or people, has ever seen or known. Here on the most 
appropriate ground, in the most vivid, practical manner, will be 
seen the authors of our independence and the fathers of our coun- 

NoTE. — Children and youth have inquiring minds, and early impressions 
are said to be most deep' and lasting. If this design should be carried out, 
the children and youth of Philadelphia would, in their earliest years, be 
visiting it with their parents and teachers, and in it, and from it, would 
learn rapidly respecting our Independence, our Revolution, our Constitu- 
tion, our government, our patriotic leaders, our States, our Union, our 
civil and religious liberty, our beloved Washington, our great country, and 
our means of prosperity and happiness, and to value such as blessings from 
Heaven, beyond all price. 

No children in any other city in the world would or could have a school 
so interesting and so full of useful instruction. 

The advantages to children, if there were nothing more, would warrant 
all the expense that can attend it. 



13 

tiy, who hrouglittlio rights and duties of man into life and action. 
And here, too, will lie shown all the interesting memorials obtain- 
able, nsed by them and for them, in their labors, trials, conflicts, 
triumphs and victory. Every sentiment of goodness a people can 
cherish invites us all to this work, that our children, and all in 
advancing generations, may see and know and learn something 
of the cost of libcrt}^, government, country, security and home, 
and to value such as a treasure beyond price. 

All here proposed needs only a beginning. Some one or more 
persons loving the work, competent for it, properly authorized 
to enter into it, to proceed quietly under instructions of an able 
committee, and find out and make sure of the real memorials 
desired that can be had, gather information, present to the origi- 
nal thirteen States the trees, arch and monument proposed to 
represent those States, keep a dail}^ record of all that may be 
done, and report at appointed times to a committee of head-quar- 
ters having an office in our city. Progress once made would 
rapidly' invite progress, and once known, would kindle a popular 
enthusiasm in its favor. Wives, mothers and daughters would 
not be wanting to urge it onward, and such aid insures success. 
Its tendency would be to repress all party feeling, and unite all 
to sustain and perfect it. Nor would funds l)e wanted to do and 
complete it. And many memorials, now held too dear to part 
W'ith, Avould, on its completion, be given to be recorded, placed 
and displayed in this sacred depositor3\ Aged persons are now 
living who are hapi^y to relate many things of great interest, seen 
or known by them in their youth, never published, but which 
pertain to this matter, and if secured now while such are living, 
may prove important and valuable. 

Perhaps no time can be more favorable than now for this work. 
Ever}' recent movement in relation to Independence Square favors 
it, no better thing can be done for our cit}', our countrj' and man- 
kind, and if commenced and directed by patriotic, judicious 
minds, it would in three years be ready for an appropriate dedi- 
cation, unless that service should be postponed to the one hun- 
dredth anniversary of the Day of Independence. 

Washington gave freely, without pa}", eight years of his life in 
rendering his invaluable services to our countr}^, and with his 
compatriots underwent labors, hazards, sacrifices, anxieties, toils, 
sufferings, severe trials, contests, privations, Avar, battles and 
blood-struggles, to carry out and establish those great principles 
of order', freedom and right, which have made us the most pros- 
perous and favored nation on eartli, Tinder a government formed 
by them, which protects equally the nation, the State, the county, 
the town, the borough, the neighborhood, the family and the 
cradle. Let us now, in our peace and prosperit}', evince our 
gratitude, and honor their character, principles and names, by 
this monument of memorials, that will command the respect, 
love and reverence of all men, and give to the w'orld a lasting 
demonstration that we do and will honor the fathers who left 
^uch glory to their children. And in so doing, that we do not 



14 

forget the mothers and daughters Avho did their part in the great 
work. 

For mothers, Avives and sisters, steadfiist, true, 

In spirit, for their country, were the van ; 
They cheered each ])atriot, for resolves anew. 

And hardships, toils and triumphs, shared with. man. 

With such a monument of memorials, Philadelphia would have 
a Mount Zion of patriotism, a temple beautified with tlie por- 
traits of departed excellence, an altar adorned witli priceless 
mementos and emblems, constituting a glory surpassing in many 
respects that of Solomon's, Avith no oflering required but affec- 
tion and reverence, no homage but gratitude to tlie Divine Giver 
of all good, to whom our fathers looked for wisdom, and no sacri- 
fice, but love to God and man. 

To contemplate all is inspiring; to behold its reality would 
bring the tribes from our thirty-six States, and otliers when 
added, and tribes from all nations, with the words of tlie ancient" 
prophet verified, " Joy and gladness is found therein, thanks- 
giving' and the voice of melody;" and all hearts vibrating with 
love for our country. Union, government, order, peace, pros- 
perity, charity and happiness. 

Throughout our land, and all lands, the tidings would run, to 
tell that the city of William Penn and of brotherly love has a 
shrine of patriotism by no other equalled; a monument of respect, 
veneration and reverence for their country's fathers, and their 
character and principles, that in moral grandeur links the past 
to the present, earth with heaven, and mortal with immortality; 
and over which the cherubim and seraphim of freedom might 
spread their wings and give it their approving voice. 

Our people, our children, our descendants for all time, and 
from the south, north, east and west of our country, besides hun- 
dreds and thousands from all nations, would visit this fountain 
of freedom to be refreshed; this house of patriotism, to be intro- 
duced to our patriot fathers in poitrait ; this shrine of memorials, 
to behold in it the heart of a mighty nation; this monument to 
ancestral excellence, to see in it the gratitude of their descen- 
dants ; this palladium of independence, government, peace and 
order, to behold it as a grand moral fortress to guard the 
rights of man ; this ark of liberty, to see in it the choicest 
jewels of our land, and this moral light-house of our beloved 
country, to behold it as a guide for all nations to the field of 
true democratic-republican-federal government; and, finall}^, to 
view the whole in all its intrinsic and commanding importance, 
as well as in all its touching and tender influence, in its 
silent but unceasing eloquence; declaring this great and funda- 
mental truth to all people, and which should be most deeply fixed 
in every heart, namely, that the Bible, the Sabbatii, the school, 
and well-conducted press are, have been, and must be the light 
of our beloved land forever, the light approved by heaven, and 
blest for man. 



15 

This treasure is brought from tlie mines of the past, 

O coin it immortal, forever to last ; 

'Tis our fatliers' great record, exalt it in light, 

And the children will keep it, untarnished and bright. 

Thus, Indepeiulcnce Square and its three ancient buildings will 
be a permanent institution, showing the introduction of practical, 
civil, and religious libert}- ; a government b}-, from, and for the 
people, and the great princii)les involved in both. The results 
therefrom, moral and material, will be vividly set forth and 
made manifest to the world b^' the grandest and most interesting 
centennial ever known on earth, for which our countrj^, States 
and cit^- are making preparation. 

This design and plan has been made known to distinguished 
men of our cit}- and nation, and to the people, more or less, of 
eleven different States in our Union, and by all approved, with ' 
the belief expressed, that diplomas of membership will be sold, 
suffieient to pay for all and provide for all subsequent expense. 
The diplomas will be large, full, and instructive. 

When the corner-stone of the Bunker Hill Monument was laid, 
on the 17th da}- of June, 1825, La Fayette, then our nation's 
guest, was present, with thousands from various parts of our 
countr\', including many veterans who served in the Revolu- 
tionary war, some of whom were survivors of the battle of 
Bunker Hill, and among w^hom was a Rev. Mr. Thaxter, who 
was a chaplain in the army of the Revolution, and who, fift^' 
years previousl}-, officiated on the same hill. He led the multi- 
tude in prayer, and was followed by Daniel Webster, who gave 
his celebrated address, in which, when speaking of the monument, 
he used these poetic and prophetic words, descriptive of a scene 
to come of beauty and magnificence, viz. : 

"■ Let it rise, till it meets the sun in his coming, 
Let the earliest light of the morning gild it. 
And parting day linger and play on its summit." 

If Independence Square should have the monument of memo- 
rials here proposed, then we will borrow Mr. Webster's idea, and 
say : Let the children and 3'outh of our land, in the bright morn 
of early life, greet it with the rising beams of joy and gladness ; 
let the ascending sun of manhood, its noon-tide and onward line 
of brightness, to life's declining da}', encircle it and crown it 
with the radiance of moral beauty, tenderness, care, protection, 
and love ; and let the heart and intellect of age, made wise bj- 
experience, gild it with the pure and beautiful raj's of lingering 
affection, and the calm, golden halo of a farewell blessing. 



16 

A Plan for carrying out the accompanying Design for making Independence 
Square and Buildings, as named tlierein, a monument of memoriil forever. 
Submitted to the Philadelphia City Councils, June 1, 1871, by Joseph Leeds, 
residing at No. 1614 Summer street: 

First. To form an association specially for the purpose, to be 
composed of gentlemen whose names and character will inspire 
perfect confidence with the people, and under whose auspices 
every thing will be done in sucli a manner that in every house- 
hold the voice of approval will be heard, to which every heart 
will respond. 

Second. To organize by having the President of the United 
States, and his successors in saitl office, ex-ofRcio, tlie president 
of this association; the Governors of each State, and tlieir suc- 
cessors in office, ex-oflicio, vice-presidents ; Senators in Congress, 
and tliree distinguished men from each State, honorary members; 
thirteen directors for all business; secretaiy, corresponding secre- 
tary, treasurer and such other officers as may be required. 

Third. To have a commission of trust, and proper authorities 
petitioned to grant to said commission and successors " Independ- 
ence Square and Buildings," for the purpose set forth in said 
design. 

Fourth. To have suitable rooms for business, and for deposit- 
ino- all memorials, until the present buildings on Independence 
Square are vacated, the said grant obtained, and all things made 
ready for their reception. 

Fifth. To engage honest, able, intelligent persons to visit the 
families having the mementos and memorials desired, state to 
them the object, procure such as far as practicable, and report 
all doings to the board of directors weekly. 

SixtJt,. To make known to all the people througliout our land 
the design and purpose, that all may understand it, that it is to 
be for our entire covuitry, and to benefit mankind. 

Seventh. To appoint a suitable committee for such portraits, 
pictures, engravings, &c., as may be required; also tlie diploma 
of membership, of such elegance as will adorn any parlor or 
room in oui- nation, or the world. 

Eighth. To consider and act on all other matters requisite to 
carry out the design. 

If carried out, it will forever commemorate the practical intro- 
duction of civil and religious liberty on earth, the grandest 
declaration man ever made, the most important revolution for 
the world's welfare, the fathers of our beloved country, the birth 
of our nation, and the best constituted government in the world. 

Bet'des which, it will be on a ground hallowed by patriotic 
associa'^ions; a monument such as no nation has known; such as 
will win all hearts; such as advancing generations will love, 
reverence, and keep sacred; such as will draw, for all coming 
time, increasing multitudes from our countr}' and the world, to 
visit it, and such as no city or place can liave in such perfection 
as Philadelpliia, because Independence Square and Hall are here. 



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